Inyo County, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Garage conversions in unincorporated Inyo County are handled primarily through the County's accessory dwelling unit framework in Title 18 Zoning Ordinance Section 18.78.340, which is aligned with California ADU law (Gov. Code 66310 et seq.). A Junior ADU (JADU) of up to 500 sq ft may be created within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling and/or attached garage, per the County's published ADU guidance. Converting the interior of an existing accessory structure (such as a detached garage) to an ADU is also recognized, and California Gov. Code 66323 requires local agencies to ministerially approve a conversion of existing space within a single-family dwelling or accessory structure (with limited expansion). Converted ADUs must meet the County's development standards and building-code requirements in Title 14, and one off-street parking space may be required for the resulting ADU unless an exemption applies (within a half-mile of transit, within an existing structure, historic district, or car-share proximity). Where replacing covered garage parking, no replacement parking is required for ADU conversions under state law. JADUs require the owner to occupy either the JADU or the primary dwelling and are not permitted in association with multifamily dwellings. Because conversions change occupancy and may add living space, a building permit and ministerial planning review through the Inyo County Planning Department are required.